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Tag: Member of Parliament

  • LIVESTREAMING: Ayawaso East Constituency elects new MP

    LIVESTREAMING: Ayawaso East Constituency elects new MP

    Constituents in Ayawaso East are casting their ballots today, Tuesday, March 3, to elect a new Member of Parliament (MP). More than 49,000 registered voters are expected to participate in the by-election.

    For months, the constituency has been without a representative following the death of long-serving legislator, Alhaji Mahama Naser Toure. Five aspirants, including former Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, are contesting the race.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Baba Jamal, is projected to win in the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

    Watch the livestream below:

    According to a new poll by Global InfoAnalytics, Baba Jamal will secure about 75% of the votes ahead of his main contender, Baba Ali of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Baba Ali has been projected to trail with 21%, independent candidate Umaru Sanda Muhammed is expected to poll 3% of the vote, with other remaining candidates, Ibrahim Iddrisu and David, to garner less than 1%.

    Independent aspirant Umaru Sanda Muhammed, who recently severed ties with the NDC, is projected to secure about 3 per cent of the vote.

    The EC scheduled the Ayawaso East by-election for March 3, 2026. The by-election has attracted heightened attention in recent days amid internal developments within the NDC, including allegations of vote buying during its parliamentary primary.

    Mr Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed won the Ayawaso East Constituency primary and is set to represent the NDC as its parliamentary candidate in the March 3 by-election, following the party’s internal primary held on February 7, 2026.

    After the close of polls, provisional results showed that Baba Jamal polled 431 votes out of the total votes cast, followed by the widow of the late Ayawaso MP, Naser Toure Hajia Amina Adam who secured 399 votes. Mr Mohammed Ramne, the Ayawaso East NDC Constituency Chairman, placed third with 88 votes.

    Dr Yakubu Azindow obtained 45 votes, while Mr Najib Mohammed Sani recorded one vote.

    The closely contested primary attracted more than 1,100 accredited delegates from across the constituency, reflecting the high stakes involved in selecting a candidate for the by-election in a seat widely regarded as a stronghold of the governing NDC.

    Five aspirants contested the race: Hajia Amina Adam, Mr Baba Jamal, Dr Yakubu Azindow, who had previously contested the late MP in the 2023 primary, Mr. Mohammed Ramne, and Mr Mohammed Sani.

    Although the race was initially considered open, it later narrowed into a tight contest among Mr Jamal, Hajia Amina Adam and Dr Azindow.

    Even though the election was peaceful on Saturday, reports of vote buying emerged on the eve of the election and on election day, involving some candidates, including Baba Jamal, who at the time was Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria and allegedly offered television sets and other items to delegates.

    Videos circulating on social media showed some delegates leaving polling centres carrying television sets and other items. Reacting to the vote-buying allegations, the NDC, in a statement signed by its Secretary, Fiifi Kwetey, announced that it would investigate the allegations. It noted that a three-member committee had been set up to probe the matter.

    In a statement issued on the same day, the NDC said its national executives had taken note of what it described as widespread incidents of inducement and vote buying allegedly perpetrated by some aspirants.

    The party condemned the acts, describing them as an affront to its values and principles, and announced that it had launched investigations into the matter.

    “In line with the Party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and ethical political conduct, the Committee will investigate the allegations and make appropriate recommendations, including sanctions where necessary,” the statement said.

    The Presidency has announced the recall of Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal, over voter inducement during the just-ended Ayawaso East primaries held on Saturday, February 7.

    In a statement titled “President recalls Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria,” shared by the Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and dated February 7, it noted that “President John Dramani Mahama has directed the immediate recall of Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed (Baba Jamal) from his position as Ghana’s High Commissioner to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    The decision follows allegations of voter inducement during today’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) primaries in the Ayawaso East Constituency, in which Mr Baba Jamal, a candidate, participated.”

    The President stressed that reports of vote buying were made against several candidates seeking to win the Ayawaso East seat, but Baba Jamal stood out because he was the only serving public officer at the time, making his case a peculiar one.

    “In his directive to the Minister for Foreign Affairs recalling Mr Baba Jamal as High Commissioner, the President noted that while allegations of vote-buying were made against multiple candidates who contested the primaries, Baba Jamal was the only serving public officer among them.”

    Consequently, to protect the integrity of public office and to avoid any public suspicion of misconduct or violation of the Government’s Code of Conduct for Political Appointees, the President stated:

    “Without prejudice to the ongoing internal party processes, and strictly in view of the standards of conduct expected of public officers, the President considers it necessary to act decisively to preserve the integrity of public office and to avoid any perception of impropriety or conflict with the Government’s Code of Conduct for Political Appointees.”

  • My NDC opponent and I are brothers, but we have not spoken for 5 years – Matthew Nyindam

    My NDC opponent and I are brothers, but we have not spoken for 5 years – Matthew Nyindam

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam, has disclosed that his relationship with his opponent, Daniel Nsala Wakpal, has remained strictly professional over the past five years, though he holds no grudges against him. 

    During an exclusive interview on JoyNews’ AM Show, Mr Nyindam explained that their formal relationship is due to his opponent’s aggressive nature.

    According to him, they have maintained a professional distance due to their opposing party affiliations, although they both hail from the Kpandai area.

    “The kind of politics he does and has brought to Kpandai is different. He’s given everybody a hell in Kpandai. Not me alone. Even within the NDC, he has caused a lot of problems. The NDC parliamentary candidate, have you had a conversation with him? No. For five years now, I’ve never spoken to him. Throughout the campaign and throughout this battle, I’ve not said a word to him. We are all coming from Kpandai. We are brothers. That’s how I see him but we don’t have that kind of friendship. His chairman, his secretary, and other party executives, we are good,” he added.

    Matthew Nyindam and Daniel Nsala Wakpal, who is affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), contested for the 2024 Kpandai Parliamentary seat in 2024. Matthew Nyindam was declared the winner after the contest but Daniel Nsala Wakpal submitted a petition to the Tamale High Court challenging the results of the 2024 parliamentary election in the constituency months after the election.

    According to him, the Kpandai parliamentary election was marred by irregularities in the voting and collation processes. He argued that Pink Sheets from many polling stations were not accurate or consistent.

    He stated: “The parliamentary election held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 was not conducted in compliance with Regulations 39 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (CI 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 39, and that the said non-compliance affected the results of the elections.

    “The declaration and publication of the parliamentary election results held in the Kpandai constituency on 7th December 2024 were not made in compliance with Regulations 43 of the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) and the principles laid down by Regulations 43, and that the said non-compliance affected the entire results of the parliamentary elections in the Kpandai constituency.”

    However, Mathew Nyindam argued that “The Parliamentary Election Petition filed by the 1st Interested Party on 25th January 2025, in respect of the Parliamentary Election held at the Kpandai Constituency on 7th December 2024, was invalid and could not have properly invoked the jurisdiction of the High Court, Commercial Division, Tamale.”

    In response to the petition, the Tamale High Court declared the Kpandai parliamentary election conducted in 2024 invalid on Monday, November 24. As a result, His Lordship Emmanuel Brew Plange directed the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a new poll in the constituency within 30 days.

    But, the Supreme Court on Tuesday, December 16, ordered that the parliamentary rerun election in the area, which was scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, be suspended until further notice. Defending its decision, the Supreme Court noted the High Court’s ruling was contrary to the law that guides how parliamentary election petitions should be handled.

    Despite the High Court directing a re-run of the election, Matthew Nyindam insisted that he and his team did not engage in any wrongdoing and are prepared to face the re-run.

    Speaking to the media on Tuesday, December 9, he noted, “I am so fine because I am not troubled. We’ve not cheated in this particular election. What I’ve realised is that there is a government that is so strong, and whatever they want to do, they will want to do it. They don’t care whether you are right or you are wrong.”

    The legal team of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate Matthew Nyindam was also directed by the Supreme Court to follow due process in serving the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, Daniel Nsala Wakpal.

  • Bawumia did not contribute to Ghana’s economic woes, Ofori-Atta did – Adwoa Safo

    Bawumia did not contribute to Ghana’s economic woes, Ofori-Atta did – Adwoa Safo

    Former Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome-Kwabenya, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has emphasized that former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia cannot be held responsible for economic woes experienced during the Akufo-Addo-led administration.


    Speaking to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) delegates, Adwoa Safo argued that other key officials under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), particularly former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, played a role in the mismanagement of the economy.

    According to her, Dr. Bawumia had no authority to counter or reverse decisions taken by the top leadership of government. She further urged the NPP delegates to throw their support behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as they gear up for the party’s presidential election on January 31, 2026.


    “Was Dr. Bawumia the finance minister? Were we not in government when some MPs said that because of the way our economy was being mismanaged, we should change the finance minister? Didn’t he damage everything before he was changed? So how can we blame this on Bawumia? He was only the driver’s mate and could not overrule the driver, even if the driver was not performing well,” she said.


    Meanwhile, flagbearer aspirant for the New Patriotic Party, Kennedy Agyapong, has picked the first spot on the party’s just concluded ballot. Dr. Bryan Acheampong picked the second position, while Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia took the third position. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Kwabena Agyepong picked the fourth and fifth positions, respectively.


    Former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, officially filed his nomination forms on Tuesday, August 26. Party executives received the nomination forms from former Assin Central MP and presidential hopeful, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, on Wednesday, August 27.

    Former Food and Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong, has also filed his nomination forms.


    In the meantime, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has received strong backing from 268 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), who paid him a visit in June to pledge their support.


    Former Energy Minister and running mate of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has decided to throw his weight behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the party’s presidential primaries in 2026.


    In an interview on Asempa FM on August 26, the former minister noted that he remains grateful to the former Vice President, who decided to make him his running mate despite many individuals advising him to do otherwise.


    According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, Dr. Bawumia was engaged countless times by some bigwigs in the party to pick someone else to be his running mate.


    “I am not ungrateful. Look at this big party, and upon all the people who were praying for the running mate slot, he ignored all of them and made me his running mate.


    “I know it was a difficult situation, but a lot of people don’t know. Some bigwigs in the party went to Dr. Bawumia to tell him not to make me the running mate, but he ignored them. There are some names that if I mentioned, you would be shocked. Some even took him to offices to advise him against me, but still he chose me,” he remarked.


    He thus said, “So, I cannot be ungrateful to him… For those who stood in the flagbearership contest, everyone knows Kennedy Agyapong is my friend, but I am still for Bawumia.”


    The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has made room for new additions to its already approximately 220,000 delegates eligible to vote in its presidential primaries slated for Saturday, January 31, next year.


    In a statement dated August 26, signed and shared by the Secretary of the Presidential Elections Committee, Williams Yamoah, the party announced that registration has been opened for an additional 60,000 new delegates, including nineteen new categories of people.


    This directive follows reforms adopted at the party’s National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19.
    The statement explained: “In accordance with Article 13(1)(11) of the Constitution of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and pursuant to the motion on transitional provisions adopted at the National Annual Delegates Conference held in Accra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, the following new categories of party officials and dignitaries have been included in the upcoming presidential primary voter register.”


    The updated voter register, also known as the party album, will now include several new categories of officials and dignitaries. These include all former regional and constituency executives, members of the National Council of Elders, 30 members of the National Council of Patrons, all past national officers, former party-card-bearing MPs and parliamentary candidates, as well as former party-card-bearing ministers and deputy ministers.


    Other groups added are external branch executives, former external branch executives, and key members of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON), including presidents of recognised institutions, the National TESCON Coordinator, regional coordinators, and one TESCON patron from each institution.


    Additionally, 10 members from each Regional Council of Elders, 10 patrons from each region, and five members and patrons from each constituency have also been included.


    The statement directed that “all officers that fall under the categories above are requested to register their names with their respective organisational structures, including the National Secretariat, Regions, Constituencies, and External Branches, as applicable, with immediate effect.”


    To make the registration process easier, the statement clarified that a digital link would be circulated to External Branch Executives for online registration. All other qualified members were advised to liaise with their respective regions and constituencies to register.


    However, the forms are to be accessed via the party’s official website. “The registration form may be downloaded from the Party’s official website. For ease of reference, a sample copy is hereby attached,” excerpts of the statement read.


    The statement further warned that registration was strictly for the aforementioned categories of people, with a deadline set for Friday, September 19.


    “The deadline for registration is Friday, September 19, 2025. Please be advised that this registration exercise is exclusively open to officers and members who meet the aforementioned criteria. The Presidential Elections Committee shall undertake a comprehensive verification and validation of the party’s album to ensure that only an authentic and credible register is used for the conduct of the presidential election.


    “We count on your usual cooperation and adherence to this directive in furtherance of the party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency,” the party cautioned.


    The NPP is on a journey of reset, reinforcement, and healing following its historic defeat in the 2024 elections. Dr. Bawumia lost the 2024 presidential election, with John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing 6,328,397 valid votes, representing 56.55%, against Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s 4,657,304 votes, representing 41.61%.


    Since the beginning of the year, the party has undertaken several reforms to position itself strongly against its main opponent, the NDC, and to recapture power.


    Among these reforms is the abolition of the electoral college in favour of a broader base of delegates. The party has also added 19 new delegate categories and granted amnesty to suspended members.


    The National Council decided during an emergency meeting held on July 25. In a statement dated August 16 and signed by the Acting National Chairman of the party, Mr. Danquah Smith Buttey, members were informed that, as part of measures to ensure unity and cooperation, all banned members had been given the right to return.


    “This measure reflects the party’s unwavering commitment to fostering internal cohesion, strengthening solidarity, and preparing collectively for the political tasks ahead. I write to inform you that the National Council, at its emergency meeting held on Friday, July 25, 2025, resolved, in the interest of unity and reconciliation, to grant a general amnesty to all party members who have been suspended or whose disciplinary cases are currently pending before the appropriate disciplinary bodies,” parts of the statement read.


    The party further urged all relevant bodies, including Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, to reinstate suspended members in accordance with laid-down rules and guiding principles.


    “We hereby serve notice that this directive lifts all such suspensions and nullifies any ongoing proceedings against affected members,” the statement added.


    However, the party clarified that this recall does not apply to members who wilfully forfeited their membership. In such cases, individuals wishing to return are required to submit a formal reinstatement request to the party’s secretariat. Upon acceptance, a two-year ban will be imposed, preventing them from contesting in any internal elections.

  • Attack on NAIMOS: Asutifi North MP to be questioned by CID today

    Attack on NAIMOS: Asutifi North MP to be questioned by CID today

    The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service is expected to interrogate the Member of Parliament (MP) for Asutifi North, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, today, Tuesday, November 4.


    Ebenezer Kwaku Addo is to provide answers regarding a violent confrontation between thugs at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region and the Director of Operations of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).

    The MP has been accused of conspiring with some of his constituents to attack officials and obstruct the operations of the NAIMOS team. However, Mr. Addo has debunked these allegations, emphasizing that he only found himself at the center of the recent confrontation between residents of his constituency because he decided to intervene to calm tensions.


    On Saturday, November 1, the Director of Operations at NAIMOS and his team narrowly escaped death in a mob assault at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region. The officials came under violent attack while carrying out their day-to-day activities as part of efforts to crack down on illegal mining in the region.


    Exhibits retrieved from the scene include a side-hand bag containing one (1) Smith & Wesson pistol, two (2) pistol magazines, twenty-one (21) rounds of 9mm ammunition, an unregistered Range Rover vehicle, an unregistered Toyota RAV4 vehicle, and several mobile phones. The operation also resulted in the arrest of several miners, including a Burkinabe national.


    However, locals were seen in a video that has since gone viral confronting the anti-mining task force and calling for the release of those arrested during the operation. Speaking to the media, NAIMOS spokesperson Paa Kwesi Schandorf described the attack as “extremely and profoundly disappointing,” adding, “It was a huge surprise that the locals became agitated, demanding the release of those arrested, and then began attacking the NAIMOS team.”


    On Monday, November 3, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, ordered an investigation into the incident.


    “The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has directed the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters to take over investigations into the attack on the Director of Operations of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and his team by thugs at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region. The Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, who is alleged to have incited the mob and obstructed the NAIMOS team, has been invited to assist in the ongoing investigation into the incident,” part of the statement read.


    The John Dramani Mahama-led government established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat in July as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities in the country.

    Speaking during an update on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, disclosed that the newly established Secretariat would act as the brain of Ghana’s anti-illegal mining operations.


    “To coordinate the efforts of the military, police, and other security agencies, the ministry has established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as the operational nerve-centre for Ghana’s fight against illegal small-scale mining,” he stated.


    The Secretariat’s responsibility is to collaborate with other key institutions such as the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority as part of its mandate.

    This collaboration is expected to ensure that excavators and other earth-moving equipment entering the country are not diverted for illegal mining activities.


    “In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance (GRA–Customs Division), and the Ports and Harbours Authority, we have initiated a proactive tracking of all imports of excavators and earth-moving equipment from the point of entry,” he added.


    Illegal mining activities continue to pose a major challenge to the country. Several Chinese nationals have been involved in such illegal operations, leading to multiple arrests.


    Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that scientific tests are being carried out on new chemicals that could help restore polluted water bodies and rivers affected by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.


    Speaking at a high-level stakeholder engagement on galamsey in Accra on Friday, October 3, with members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama said, “There are new chemicals that have come that allow you to treat water and take out the toxins and the heavy metals. One of them is called dowtine. The people came, and we sent them there. They took samples, tested. We are waiting for them to bring the results back.”


    He has asked Ghanaians to exercise patience regarding the longstanding battle against illegal mining (galamsey) activities. During a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama said declaring a state of emergency will not end the menace.


    According to him, government advisors believe the country can overcome galamsey by adopting best practices in small-scale mining, including technologies that help neutralize or remove harmful chemicals from water bodies.


    Additionally, the President pledged to honor the calls of many Ghanaians by declaring a state of emergency when his advisors give him the nod to do so.


    President Mahama believes that the country can eradicate the long-term canker if it deploys more troops and invests additional resources in the fight. He concluded that the battle seems to be a long one, but his administration is committed to ending it.


    “While we are fighting the menace, I am also saying we should uptake technology in order to protect the environment. So yes, let’s fight the illegal mining but at the same time, let’s bring the new technology that will help us protect our environment.


    “Now with the elephant in the room, state of emergency, yes, I have the power to do it, but the president acts on the advice of the National Security Authority, and as at now, this moment, the National Security Authority believes that we can win the fight against galamsey without declaring a state of emergency. I want to assure you that the day they advise me otherwise, that boss, now we need a state of emergency, I won’t hesitate,” he added.

  • I’m dedicated to getting back funds paid to Service Auto Ghana by govt – Ablakwa

    I’m dedicated to getting back funds paid to Service Auto Ghana by govt – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has committed to reclaiming all funds disbursed to Service Ghana Auto, arguing that these payments lacked Parliamentary sanction.

    He has also guaranteed that no more payments will be made to the company.

    In a recent social media update, he declared, “He has also vowed to ensure that no further payments are made to the organization regarding the purchasing of spare parts for the ambulances procured by the current government.”

    Read his full post below

    This week, I shall be escalating parliamentary oversight efforts aimed at compelling the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to abrogate the sleazy, unconscionable, and dubiously inflated US$34.9 million ambulance spare parts sweetheart deal.

    We will do everything in our power to ensure the outstanding US$24.9 million is not paid.

    We shall also initiate vigorous steps to have our US$10 million (GHS120.7 million) retrieved from the shady and discredited Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    Remember, this alarmingly corrupt transaction was not approved by Parliament; therefore, Ken Ofori-Atta had no legal basis to grant ministerial authorization for the US$34.9 million heist, more so, to further instruct the release of US$10 million.

    Meanwhile, I shall be fully cooperating with the OSP’s investigations following my complaint.

    May God help us win this latest battle against ugly, destructive state capture.

    For God and Country.

  • I don’t want to inherit my father’s will – Kennedy Agyapong Jr.

    I don’t want to inherit my father’s will – Kennedy Agyapong Jr.

    Entrepreneur and son of Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong, Kennedy Agyapong Jr. aims to surpass his father’s financial success.

    He attributes his solid financial grounding to his parents.

    Speaking on Asaase Radio, he expressed confidence in his ability to achieve this goal, noting that he’s fortunate not to start from scratch.

    Kennedy Jr. is focused on expanding his legacy through various ventures, including shea butter sales and fashion design.

    He emphasized the importance of personal effort, stating, “I can’t rely solely on my father’s name; it’s time to push forward. I don’t want to inherit my father’s will,” Kennedy Agyapong Jr.

    Kennedy Jr. also highlighted his commitment to supporting his siblings financially if necessary, underscoring his readiness to take on that responsibility.

  • I want to be richer than my father – Kennedy Agyapong Jr.

    I want to be richer than my father – Kennedy Agyapong Jr.

    Entrepreneur and son of Member of Parliament (MP) Kennedy Agyapong, Kennedy Agyapong Jr., aims to surpass his father’s wealth.

    In an exclusive interview on Asaase Radio, he emphasized leveraging the solid financial foundation his parents provided.

    Kennedy Jr. expressed determination to build upon this legacy, stating, “I believe I can achieve it. I’ve had the privilege of not starting from scratch.”

    He outlined plans to support his siblings financially, should the need arise, highlighting his active involvement in various business ventures including shea butter sales and fashion design.

    Kennedy Jr. stressed the importance of personal effort, despite his father’s influence, asserting, “Now is not the time to rest on my father’s name.”

    “I think I can do it; you have to set a goal because I have the opportunity to not start from zero. I always tell my dad, God forbid, if he dies, he doesn’t have to leave me with anything. He should give everything to the rest of my siblings because I am the second oldest.

    “And I have been working with him for a long time so I should be the one to take care of my siblings if he’s not there. He started from zero; now he’s at one, I should be at two, then my other siblings and children should add on to it,” Kennedy Agyapong Jr. said in a report on asaaseradio.com.

    Kennedy Agyapong Jr., who is also a co-founder of the Afrofuture Festival, revealed that he has started a chain of businesses.

    “I do a lot of things, like selling shea butter and making clothes as well. I can’t just rely on the fact that my father is Kennedy Agyapong, so this is not the time to relax.”

  • Interior Minister’s Prisons ‘land looting’ reply won’t make fighting state capture easy – Ablakwa

    Interior Minister’s Prisons ‘land looting’ reply won’t make fighting state capture easy – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for the North Tongu constituency, Okudzeto Ablakwa, has once again accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of involvement in capturing state properties. In a tweet, he alleged that lands belonging to Ghana Prisons are under threat of state capture by individuals associated with the Vice Presidency.

    In a video addressing concerns about these claims, Ablakwa queried Interior Minister Henry Quartey about his knowledge of ongoing actions. Minister Quartey, however, denied any official notice of demolitions and defended the integrity of the individuals involved, noting their reputable standing and separation of private business from political roles.

    Minister Quartey explained that redevelopment plans for Ghana Prisons Service barracks aim to alleviate severe living conditions endured by junior officers and their families. He stated that proposals for redevelopment have been under consideration for over 20 years and that a recent proposal was endorsed by both the prison officers and council service.

    Responding to allegations, Ablakwa questioned the motives behind the redevelopment and potential benefits to developers involved. He cited conflicting statements from government bodies regarding land allocation and urged alignment between ministries to protect Ghana Prisons’ property rights.

    He specifically pointed to Professor Kweku Appiah Adu, a senior advisor to Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, alleging his involvement in actions against the prison service’s interests, including alleged demolitions and land encroachments. Ablakwa pressed for clarity on government actions to resolve the matter and safeguard state-owned lands.

    Watch video below:

  • No matter the intimidation, State capture shall be defeated – Ablakwa

    No matter the intimidation, State capture shall be defeated – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has affirmed his unwavering commitment to combating state capture and government corruption, asserting that no amount of intimidation would deter him.

    His statement comes in response to two separate lawsuits filed against him.

    One by former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Freddie Blay and his son, Kwame Blay, regarding defamatory claims implicating them in alleged state property theft.

    Kwame Blay’s lawsuit focuses solely on Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, clarifying his non-involvement in Polo Beach Club or any affiliated entities, and his lack of dealings with Loic Devos Jnr.

    Freddie Blay’s lawsuit, involving Media General and Johnnie Hughes in addition to Ablakwa, alleges malicious intent in Ablakwa’s statements, aiming to damage his reputation ahead of elections.

    In response, Ablakwa, on social media, welcomed the legal challenge, particularly regarding Labadi Beach Hotel’s beachfront, asserting resilience against intimidation in the fight against state capture.

    “They say better late than never — even though I am yet to be served, this is great news after many weeks of countless threats. The battle to reclaim Labadi Beach Hotel’s beachfront just got exciting. Justice does not always belong to those who are first to seek refuge in the courts — if you doubt this, ask the double identity champion. No matter the intimidation theatrics, State Capture shall surely be defeated! For God and Country. Ghana First.”

    See Ablakwa’s post below:

  • Angry woman pours water on Peter Amewu’s men during door-to-door campaign

    Angry woman pours water on Peter Amewu’s men during door-to-door campaign

    Tensions allegedly flared in the Hohoe Constituency as the Member of Parliament (MP), John Peter Amewu’s campaign team faced resistance during a door-to-door tour.

    Allegations emerged that individuals, purportedly affiliated with the campaign, were rejected and even had water thrown at them by angry residents.

    In a video shared by a user identified as @nanayaaprempeh, three men, believed to be part of John Peter Amewu’s campaign team, can be seen engaging with a woman in what appears to be a doorstep interaction.


    Suddenly, the situation took a dramatic turn as the woman expressed her displeasure by throwing a pan of water at the men.

    Watch video below:



    On Saturday, January 27, 2024, delegates from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Hohoe constituency enthusiastically acclaimed MP, John Peter Amewu, as the party’s parliamentary candidate for the upcoming December elections.

    Since 1992, Hon. John-Peter Amewu has made history as the first NPP candidate to secure victory in a parliamentary election within the stronghold of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), achieving this milestone in the 2020 election.


    This upcoming election marks his second attempt at retaining the seat in what is considered a pivotal contest.

  • Fix our roads if you want our votes – Mallam residents to govt

    Fix our roads if you want our votes – Mallam residents to govt

    Residents of Mallam, situated along the ‘borla’ road within the Weija-Gbawe Municipality, took to the streets on Thursday in protest, demanding the asphaltation of the 1km road.

    Approximately a hundred residents participated in the demonstration, escorted by police officers.

    They brandished placards bearing messages urging authorities to address the road issue, with slogans such as “No road, no vote.”

    Despite the observation by the news team of a pile of stones and coarse sand on the road shoulders, residents claimed it was merely a superficial attempt to appease them, rather than a genuine effort to resolve the problem.

    Spokesperson for the group, Abel Tetteh, expressed disappointment in the lack of regard shown by local authorities and the failure of the Member of Parliament (MP) and assembly members to tackle the road issue.

    Mr Tetteh questioned the government’s commitment to asphalting the roads, highlighting that other neighborhoods in Accra have received asphalt roads while they continue to wait for theirs.

    Now, the residents are making a direct appeal to the government to intervene and provide the necessary assistance to improve their road conditions.

    “It has happened, because these people do not respect us, first of all, they invited us, they didn’t come to us again. We want an asphalt [road] with a white line.

    “The government said he’s doing asphalt everywhere. So where is ours? So we’re appealing to the government that he should come to our aid and come and do our road for us.

    “We don’t want the MP to come again because the MP has failed us, and the assembly members too have failed us…we the residents concerned, residents of Bola Road, are tired of the road and the dust for 30 years now we are not okay with the dust.”

  • It is sad, every elected officer is called a thief – Joe Wise

    It is sad, every elected officer is called a thief – Joe Wise

    First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament (MP) for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu (Joe Wise), has announced his intention to retire from public service once his tenure in the 8th Parliament ends.

    Citing health concerns exacerbated by the pressures of public service and politics, Joseph Osei-Owusu stated that he would no longer continue in public service.

    He expressed distress over public perceptions labeling politicians and public servants as thieves, despite his personal commitment to integrity and refusal to solicit support from others.

    Furthermore, Osei-Owusu refuted the notion that legislators could be deemed thieves, highlighting their limited involvement in handling public funds. He clarified that MPs do not directly manage public finances, with their responsibilities primarily focused on approving budgets rather than allocating or disbursing funds.

    “It hurts to hear people call you a thief only because you opted to work for the public. Listen to all public discussions.

    “Every politician, every elected official is called a thief. Nothing hurts me more than that; when I can say with pride that I have never asked for support from anybody,” he is quoted to have said.

    He added, “I have never asked for anybody to give me anything before. I do my work so those are the things that I think have contributed to my health issues. Now I have health issues so I want to leave the field quietly and endure my pain”.

  • Netizens slam Sheila Bartels for ‘advertising’ constituents she got jobs for

    Netizens slam Sheila Bartels for ‘advertising’ constituents she got jobs for

    Ghanaians are expressing strong disapproval of Member of Parliament (MP), Sheila Bartels for her public display of recently graduated police officers from the Ablekuma North Constituency.

    In a post dated Saturday, April 13, 2024, Sheila Bartels proudly showcased the recruits with the caption: “Freshest batch of graduated police officers from Ablekuma North constituency. We wish you the best!”

    Despite the apparent joy displayed by the individuals in the accompanying photos, concerns have been raised regarding Sheila Bartels’ involvement in their recruitment.

    While the extent of her participation remains unclear, some individuals have implied that the legislator may have facilitated their entry into the police force.

    These allegations, however, lack evidence and are perceived by many as efforts to politicize the recruitment process.

    Critics argue that such actions undermine the credibility of security agencies and should not be tolerated in the political sphere.

    View her post and some comments below:

  • Politics is a platform for serving constituents – Ricketts-Hagan

    The Member of Parliament (MP) representing Cape Coast South Constituency, George Kwaku Ricketts-Hagan, has emphasized the importance of politicians and parliamentarians recognizing their role as servants of the people in their respective constituencies.

    He underscored the need for them to prioritize meeting the needs of their constituents rather than personal enrichment.

    During the commissioning of a community clinic equipped with essential medical facilities to enhance healthcare in the fishing community of Ekon within the constituency, Mr. Kwaku Ricketts-Hagan reiterated his commitment to serving the people through politics.

    He emphasized that genuine service to the community should be the primary motivation for engaging in politics, rather than self-enrichment.

    Despite facing challenges as an opposition member, Mr. Kwaku Ricketts-Hagan reaffirmed his dedication to serving the constituents of Cape Coast South in Parliament.

    He pledged to collaborate with the community to improve the constituency for the benefit of all residents.

    The renovation of the Ekon Clinic, which included the addition of a maternity ward and laboratory, was aimed at improving healthcare services for local residents.

    Samuel Kwabena Ofosu, the Director of the Cape Coast Metro Health Directorate, expressed gratitude to the MP and other supporters for their contributions.

    He also appealed for continued assistance to ensure that the Ekon Health Centre can deliver comprehensive healthcare services effectively.

    Nana Kwame Adu Ababio II, the Chief of Ekon, lauded the MP for his unwavering dedication to the community’s welfare and expressed enthusiasm for the upgraded facilities at the Ekon clinic.

  • Monies meant for community development used by govt to construct Astro Turf – MP reveals

    Monies meant for community development used by govt to construct Astro Turf – MP reveals

    The Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Builsa South Constituency in the Upper East Region, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has voiced his opposition to the government’s practice of diverting funds from the Assembly Common Fund, especially at a time when public basic education is grappling with significant challenges.

    Dr. Apaak raised concerns about the allocation of Common Fund resources towards projects like AstroTurfs, questioning the prioritization of such endeavors over addressing the urgent needs of public education.

    He contended that while investing in infrastructure such as AstroTurfs may have its merits, it should not supersede the imperative of allocating sufficient resources to enhance the quality of basic education.

    “Mr Speaker while it is admirable that some allocation has been made to support education. I wish to state emphatically that given the current challenges that we face, particularly in the rural parts of this country to do with inadequate and lack of educational infrastructure for basic schools, where we have several communities which have population sufficient to begin education. We ought to take another look of allocating monies for the construction of astro turfs.

    “Why will we prioritize Astro turf over building kindergartens, prioritize Astro turf over procuring furniture for over 1.3 million Ghanaian students who have to sit on bare floor or stones to study, “he added.

    The District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) was established with the aim of channeling financial resources from the central government to local governments (MMDAs).

    Meanwhile, the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has pledged to increase the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) from the current 5% to 7% should he win the 2024 elections.

  • 18th May set for John Kumah’s burial

    18th May set for John Kumah’s burial

    The late Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, John Ampontuah Kumah, will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 18, 2024.

    The final funeral rites are slated to occur on Sunday, May 19, 2024.

    The 45-year-old legislator passed away earlier this month after a brief illness, leaving behind a wife and six children.

    Known affectionately as Lawyer John Kumah among his constituents, he was widely esteemed for his integrity and dedication to job creation.

    He served as a beacon of hope for both the young and old within his community.

    A one-week observance took place in Ejisu on Thursday, where dignitaries, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and sympathizers gathered at Kumah’s hometown to mourn his passing.

    Many attendees, including his constituents, wore red and black attire as a symbol of their grief and sorrow. They fondly remembered Kumah as a diligent individual who devoted his life to public service.

  • Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has alleged that parents are currently paying bribes to secure admissions into various senior high schools (SHSs) in Ghana.

    According to him, these bribes are being demanded at the placement centers for SHS admissions.

    Speaking on TV3’s Key Points regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, Dafeamekpor expressed concerns about corruption in the education system, citing instances where parents are allegedly paying to secure spots in popular schools.

    He claimed that corruption has infiltrated the computerized placement system, leading to demands for bribes at placement centers.

    Dafeamekpor argued that this issue needs to be addressed to ensure fairness in the admission process.

    “Today, parents are paying bribes to admit their children into SHSs because the computer system is being tampered with.

    “They will tell you Achimota School is full but if you pay money they will admit you, they will tell you PRESEC is full but if you pay money they will admit you, this is not from the headmasters but persons at the placements centers,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday Febraury 3 regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, released on Tuesday, January 30, ranking Ghana in the 70th position out of 180 countries monitored.

    Additionally, Dafeamekpor criticized the current administration’s efforts in fighting corruption, stating that former President John Dramani Mahama demonstrated stronger political will in tackling corruption during his tenure.

    In contrast, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu asserted that President Akufo-Addo lost the fight against corruption when he appointed relatives as ministers of state. Kpebu emphasized that Akufo-Addo’s family and friends’ governance is a sign of corruption.

    On the same program, Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi, defended President Akufo-Addo, arguing that blaming the president for acts of corruption by other officers is unfair. Appiah-Kubi emphasized the independence of state investigative bodies empowered to fight corruption.

    The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) report by Transparency International ranked Ghana 70th out of 180 countries, with a score of 43 out of 100.

    The report highlighted concerns about stagnation in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts for the fourth consecutive year.

  • NPP female MPs are losing elections because most women don’t participate in DLEs – NALAG

    NPP female MPs are losing elections because most women don’t participate in DLEs – NALAG

    The National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana (NALAG) has attributed the recent loss of female incumbent Members of Parliament (MP) to the limited participation of women in district-level elections.

    NALAG contended that societal biases, viewing women as unfit for political roles, significantly contribute to the recurrent defeat of women in both national and district-level polls.

    This observation follows the New Patriotic Party parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024, where 28 incumbent MPs, notably including female representatives like Adwoa Safo, MP for the Dome Kwabenya constituency, were unsuccessful in their reelection bids.

    “I think that the assembly level should be a training ground to aspire to higher political office, and so in a situation where we have 14.5% in the 2020 elections as female MPs who were elected to parliament and today we are seeing the numbers decrease from what we experienced in 2020, then we ought to be alarmed. We may not even get 14% in the national parliament and that is very worrying.”

    “As of now, we have not been able to kill the stereotype and the prejudices we have against women when it comes to leadership. However, leadership must take decisive action to implement Affirmative Action.”

    The gender disparity extended to the district-level elections, with only 4.1% of elected officials being women, while men constituted a dominant 95.9%.

    NALAG’s General Secretary, Kokro Amankwah, emphasized the importance of district-level elections as a foundational step in women’s political involvement, expressing concern about the declining numbers of female MPs.

    Mr Amankwah highlighted the need to challenge stereotypes and prejudices against women in leadership roles.

    He stressed that while the district level might pose challenges, the political landscape should become more favorable for women as they ascend the ranks.

    In response to the situation, NALAG and the Network for Women’s Rights are urging President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to appoint 60% women to the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies.

    They advocate for decisive action, including the implementation of Affirmative Action, to address gender imbalances in leadership roles. The Local Government Act, 2016 (Act 936), allows the president to appoint 30% of Assembly members, with the remaining 70% elected.

  • NPP has lost its relevance in Mfantseman – Delegates

    NPP has lost its relevance in Mfantseman – Delegates

    Delegates from the Mfantseman Constituency in the Central Region of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have alleged that selective treatment and neglect by the party, accusing it of exploiting their efforts during elections and disregarding them post-victory.

    Led by a delegate known as Agya, the group contended that despite their significant contributions to the party’s success, they receive no benefits when the NPP secures power.

    Agya voiced their frustration in an interview with Oyerepa TV, stating, “We have realized that those who suffer for the party get nothing in exchange when the party wins power.

    “They no longer regard the delegate… We have realized that the NPP is just using us to work without benefits when the party wins power. The party becomes selective, and only a few people enjoy it.

    “The strength of the party in Mfantseman is shaking, and as a result, the party is no longer attractive.”

    The delegates specifically criticized the Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency, Ophelia Mensah, accusing her of failing to advocate on their behalf and acknowledge their role in the party’s achievements. T

    hey express determination to bring about change in their representation within the constituency.

    To address these grievances and instill confidence in the party, the disgruntled delegates have thrown their support behind Gabriel Amoah, a former 1st Vice-Chairman of the NPP in the Mfantseman Constituency.

    They believe that Amoah, who has a long history of service to the party, is the candidate to usher in positive change for their town.

  • Bow your head down in shame – Dr Otchere Ankrah decends on Lawyer Sosu

    Governance Lecturer at the Central University, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, has condemned Member of Parliament from Madina, Francis-Xavier Kojo Sosu for his outburst during the #OccupyBoG demonstration last Tuesday.

    Mr Soso was heard pronouncing vulgur words to the the leadership of the Bank of Ghana when he engaged the media.

    He however rendered an apology hours later, explaining that his actions were out of character as he was angry.

    In reaction, Dr Otchere believes that Mr Sosu does not deserve to be a Member of Parliament or be acknowledged as an honourable.

    He wondered why the MP has not been summoned by the Privileges Committee over his comments

    “He must bow his head in shame, that a whole member of parliament as he is could make such filthy pronouncement. If it were someone else, they would likely have been called before the privileges committee. Isn’t it? You don’t talk like this. Its a shame to stand in public and talk like that as an MP,” the lawyer stated.

    Dr Otchere is not the only individual dissatisfied with the Madina MP’s utterance.

    Former Member of Parliament (MP) for the Bantama constituency, Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, has also vented his spleen.

    He noted that for an individual with such authority, it is unpardonable to utter such an utterance, irrespective of one’s mood or sentiment.

    “A whole Member of Parliament who was elected—what sort of anger is it that you couldn’t control? You said you were going to have the BoG governor removed. You protested but did not go to meet him. You met the security head you claim was a watchman and kept your petition. You said you’d return, and we said okay. So why the insult? The words you said cannot be said anywhere. Why?” he quizzed during an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show.

    According to Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, such individuals cannot urge Ghanaians to vote for them to return to power.

    “Are these the kind of people who want us to vote for them come 2024? Ghanaians are watching,” he said.

  • Lydia Alhassan investing in political activities with Common Fund – NDC

    Lydia Alhassan investing in political activities with Common Fund – NDC

    The Ayawaso West Wuogon branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has alleged that the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP), Lydia Seyram Alhassan, is diverting the district assembly’s common fund towards her political endeavors.

    The party claims that this fund, intended for addressing local developmental challenges, is not being used as intended.

    Bismark Aborbi Aryitey, the NDC chairman for Ayawaso West Wuogon, stated that Alhassan has not provided an account of the common fund’s utilization.

    He noted that the fund appears to be directed toward NPP members in the constituency and questioned its allocation.

    Concurrently, the NDC leadership in the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency has officially endorsed actor-turned-farmer John Dumelo as their candidate for the upcoming 2024 general elections.

    In a statement signed by constituency chairman Bismark Aborbi-Ayitey, it was revealed that fellow aspirants Fred Nuamah and Kojo Adu Owusu have withdrawn from the race to allow Dumelo to represent the NDC.

    Fred Nuamah withdrew his candidacy on August 8 and pledged his full support to Dumelo. The NDC is urging its supporters and the public to unite behind Dumelo’s bid to win the seat from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 elections.

  • Use legal means to remove BoG Governor

    Use legal means to remove BoG Governor

    The Member of Parliament for Dormaa East, Paul Twum Barimah, has expressed strong disapproval of the Minority caucus’ intentions to stage a protest at the Bank of Ghana. The protest is aimed at demanding the resignation of the Governor and his deputies.

    The NDC lawmakers on Tuesday issued a 21-day ultimatum to the management of the central bank to resign over allegations of mismanagement of the institution, or the group would mass up at the premises of the bank to compel them to step aside.

    The MP for Dormaa East, Paul Twum Barimah, said the Minority must use legal means in their demand for the removal of the Bank of Ghana Governor and his deputies.

    “It is about time we considered the national interest. If you think somebody has committed a crime or has broken the law, is it about picketing or using the laws? The Bank of Ghana Act clearly states how we can remove a governor, so why aren’t we using that procedure?” he asked.

    “The Minority also has members on the Financial Committee of Parliament, and they can haul the governor of the bank before Parliament to answer questions. So why do we have to go and picket? Will the picketing bring back the law that has been broken?” he added.

    “We need to put our country first and let us move away from this politics of picketing for everybody to see. You don’t need to try to use politics at all times because it will not help us as a country.

  • Alan’s letter regarding challenges with NPP’s super delegate congress register was leaked – Ayeh-Paye

    Alan’s letter regarding challenges with NPP’s super delegate congress register was leaked – Ayeh-Paye

    .

    The former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ayensuano from the NPP, Samuel Ayeh-Paye, has alleged that a letter written by a potential presidential candidate of the party was leaked.

    This letter was sent by one of the party’s candidates, Alan Kyerematen, to the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK).

    The former MP stated that a member from Alan’s campaign team indicated that the letter had been accessed by only three parties, namely Alan’s team, JFK, and potentially the NPP elections committee.

    During an interview on Adom TV, Ayeh-Paye clarified that he made these comments on Saturday, asserting that the letter wasn’t leaked by anyone within Alan’s team, implying that the responsibility likely falls on the other parties who had access to the letter.

    “We wrote a letter to the general secretary (JFK) over some of the anomalies we saw in the supper delegate register just as he asked us to.

    “Before we realise it, the letter we wrote to the general secretary to address the anomalies in the register so we would all accept it had been leaked on social media. And once it was on social media, the traditional media would also pick it for us to discuss which is not the best because we should not be addressing this issue in public,” he said in Twi.

    He explained that the general secretary was to simply send the letter to the election committee for the committee to look into the issues raised before it even becomes an issue for public discussion.

    In the said letter which was addressed to the chairman of the Presidential Elections Committee, Alan’s team requested that the party address irregularities discovered in the party’s register for the special delegates conference.

    The letter which was written by Nana Ohene-Ntow said, “I write for and on behalf of the Alan for President (A4P) Campaign. Aspirants were advised to review the Register for the Special Delegates Conference (SDC) and to return their comments within one week of receipt of the Register,”

    “Some comments were made by the campaign team upon review of the register which the team is urging the party to address for transparency purposes.”

    Some of the issues raised in the petition include the omission of names and the inclusion of certain persons Alan’s team deemed were to qualified to vote in the supper delegate congress.

  • MP for Ahanta West debunks rumors of his resignation

    MP for Ahanta West debunks rumors of his resignation

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Ahanta West, Ebenezer Kojo Kum, representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has denied rumors circulating about his desire to resign.

    Addressing these reports for the first time in an interview on Angel TV, on Sunday, July 30, 2023, which was monitored by GhanaWeb, the Ahanta West legislator strongly rejected any claims suggesting that his family is urging the NPP leadership to allow him to step down from his position.

    He clarified that he has not submitted any letter to the party, informing them of his intention to resign as an MP.

    “I have not written any letter to the party that I want to resign. I have not even written one letter, let alone the two being reported.

    “I went to parliament on Friday. I have not sent a letter anywhere. Whom did they say I sent the letter to?” he asked in Twi.

    Kojo Kum also dismissed claims that there are no ongoing developmental projects in his constituency.

    Background:

    News from Kessben TV suggested that Ebenezer Kojo Kum was rumored to be seeking resignation from his position.

    According to the report, Kojo Kum has written to the national leadership of the NPP twice, expressing his desire to step down due to health reasons.

    Although the party’s leadership is keen on having the Ahanta West legislator continue in his role, his family is adamant that he should resign due to health constraints.

  • Sosu urges to Akufo-Addo to move individuals on death row to life sentence

    Sosu urges to Akufo-Addo to move individuals on death row to life sentence

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina, Francis Xavier Sosu, has appealed to President Akufo-Addo to commute all death row inmates’ sentences to life imprisonment.

    This move would align with Ghana’s commitment to the Criminal Offences Amendment Bill 2022, which removes the death penalty from the country’s laws.

    On Tuesday, July 25, Parliament passed the bill, technically eliminating the death penalty from Ghana’s legal system. Under the new law, the President will have the authority to change death sentences to life imprisonment.

    In the past, the death penalty was part of Ghana’s Criminal Offences Code but had not been implemented during the Fourth Republic.

    Human rights advocates have long called for the abolition of the death penalty, and the passage of the bill marks significant progress in this regard.

    Deputy Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin expressed satisfaction with the repeal, urging the nation to celebrate this important step.

    MP Francis Xavier Sosu, who actively supported the bill, emphasized the importance of President Akufo-Addo’s assent to the legislation and further appealed for the commuting of all current death row inmates to life sentences.

    He believes this action will demonstrate a genuine commitment to moving away from state-sanctioned killing and towards a pro-life approach, while still denouncing acts of violence.

  • Agyarko’s revelations expose Akufo-Addo’s corrupt nature – Kofi Buah

    Agyarko’s revelations expose Akufo-Addo’s corrupt nature – Kofi Buah

    The former Minister of Energy, Boakye Agyarko’s recent revelations about the incidents during the re-negotiation of the 250 Megawatts Ameri Power Plant have drawn strong reactions from the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament (MP) for Ellembele, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah.

    Buah took to Twitter to express his views, stating that Agyarko’s revelations confirm the long-held belief of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government is notoriously corrupt. 

    He pointed out that the claim by Agyarko that Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, acting on behalf of the government, disregarded the committee set up to negotiate the Ameri deal, reflects the immense power held by certain individuals in the government.

    “This jaw-dropping revelation is a further affirmation of the long-held view of the NDC Minority in Parliament that the dubious and needless deal that was championed by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government soon after coming into office was nothing but a fraudulent scheme to shortchange the Ghanaian people.

    “In the said interview, Mr. Boakye Agyarko lifted the veil over a tussle between himself and the nephew of President Akufo-Addo, Gabby Otchere Darko over who had the legitimate right and authority to champion the shady AMERI renegotiated deal that was going to witness elements in the Akufo-Addo government cream millions of dollars off the poor Ghanaian taxpayer.

    “While the former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko preferred to renegotiate with METKA, Gabby Otchere who essentially was acting for and on behalf of the family and friends cabal in government, chose to negotiate with AMERI,” parts of the tweet read.

    The Ellembele legislator added that the renegotiated Ameri deal has short-changed Ghana by about $1 billion, extending the contract from 5 to 10 years at a significantly higher cost to the Ghanaian taxpayer.

    Background

    Boakye Agyarko, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer hopeful, recounted alleged incidents during the re-negotiation of the 250 Megawatts Ameri Power Plant when he was the Minister for Energy.

    According to Agyarko, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko re-negotiated the Ameri deal without the approval of the committee set up by the government for this purpose.

    He further stated that when he confronted Gabby about the matter, the latter claimed President Akufo-Addo was already aware of the steps he had taken. Agyarko expressed his surprise at Gabby’s actions, considering specific instructions from the Cabinet regarding the renegotiation process.

    When Agyarko discussed the issue with President Akufo-Addo, the president questioned if there was a problem with Gabby’s actions. Agyarko emphasized that the authority to renegotiate the Ameri Power Plant terms did not lie with Gabby and that the proposal from the firm he contracted violated all Cabinet instructions, extending the contract to 20 years.

    Despite agreeing with Agyarko’s reasoning, President Akufo-Addo asked him to forward the deal negotiated by Gabby to the committee responsible for renegotiating the deal.

  • Ensure your actions do not affect Gyakye Quayson’s legal processes – Adjei Baah to Minority

    Ensure your actions do not affect Gyakye Quayson’s legal processes – Adjei Baah to Minority

    A former Member of Parliament (MP) for Nkawkaw, Eastern Region, Seth Adjei Baah, has called on the Minority in Parliament to respect the legal process in the case involving MP for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson.

    He emphasizes that the continuous absence of the caucus could significantly impact their constituents, prompting the need to negotiate with the majority side.

    Seth Adjei Baah advises the Majority to find a way to get the Minority back to Parliament while allowing the judiciary to carry out its work impartially.

    He believes that continuing in the current manner could result in the suffering of Ghanaians, and therefore, he urges the Minority to give the judiciary the space to fulfill its responsibilities correctly.

    Seth Adjei Baah pleads with his fellow MPs to return and work together in moving Ghana forward.

    “The NDC has the right to boycott if they are not happy about certain issues. However, we should also make sure that we do not stand in the way of the judiciary. This is a case where, if we are not careful, we will be influencing the stance of the judiciary. So, I think the majority should just come out and find a way to negotiate to get them back to Parliament while the judiciary is going ahead to do their work.”

    “Because if you continue in this way, it means that Ghanaians are suffering, and you are there to help us get things done. Yes, I don’t want to say that they should do this or that, but they should give the judiciary the chance to do what is right. They are trying the case; the lawyers are going, and I know that in Ghana, they will do the right thing. So, it is not about following up there that will influence the decision of the court. So, I will plead with my brothers to come back and let’s see how best we can move Ghana forward,” he stated.

  • Death penalty ban may fuel mob justice – Avoka

    Death penalty ban may fuel mob justice – Avoka

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Zebilla constituency in the Upper East Region, Cletus Apul Avoka, has voiced his disagreement with the calls to abolish the death penalty in Ghana’s legal system.

    Discussions among legislators have arisen following the report from the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee on the Criminal Offences Amendment Act, which proposes replacing the death penalty with life imprisonment.

    Speaking to the media, Avoka restated his position, expressing concerns that eliminating the death penalty could have negative consequences for the country’s justice system.

    He argued that without the deterrent of the law, there could be an increase in vigilante justice, where suspects are killed by civilians without proper judicial proceedings.

    “Where is the evidence that when the death penalty is taken out of our books, people will not commit murder? In fact, we are having fewer heinous crimes because of the existence of the death penalty. Already, people do not have confidence in the judicial system, and if you now go around telling people that if you kill somebody, you will not die, then you are inviting Ghanaians to take the law into their hands and do instant justice.”

    “Abolishing the death penalty has the tendency to increase mob justice.”

    Mr. Avoka refuted the notion that countries that have abolished the death penalty experience lower crime rates. He argued that each jurisdiction is unique and what may work elsewhere may not necessarily be effective in Ghana’s context.

    He emphasized the need to consider Ghana’s specific circumstances when evaluating the potential impact of abolishing the death penalty.

    “There is very little logical argument to the conversation that the peaceful countries in the world do not have the death penalty in their books. The jurisdiction is not the same and has different issues and so advancing that argument is a non-starter.

    “There is no empirical proof that in Ghana if we abolish the death penalty, people will not commit heinous crimes. There is nothing to support it.”

    While the death penalty was originally inherited from the colonial administration as a punishment for serious offenses, including murder, attempted murder, genocide, piracy, and smuggling of gold or diamonds, Ghana has not carried out any executions since 1993.

    In contrast to this, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the presiding archbishop and general overseer of the Action Chapel International ministry, supports the movement to abolish the death penalty.

  • Tamale Airport’s new terminal to be operational by July 31 – Transport minister

    Tamale Airport’s new terminal to be operational by July 31 – Transport minister

    Transport Minister, Mr. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has disclosed that the new terminal building at the Tamale Airport will become operational on July 31.

    In response to a query from, Member of Parliament (MP) for Mion, Mr. Musah Abdul-Aziz Ayaba, for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Minister informed the House.

    The MP enquired as to the Tamale International Airport’s anticipated opening and completion dates.

    According to Mr. Asiamah, Tamale Airport Phase II was largely finished in August 2022.

    He added that as a result, the Operational Readiness and Transfer program started in August 2022 to make sure that potential risks involved in the transition process from the construction to operational phase were carefully managed to avoid subpar start-up performance that could harm the country’s reputation.

    He explained that originally, the Terminal was scheduled to “Go-Live” in December 2022, to stimulate operations and effective integration of the airport systems.

    He said the “Go-Live’ had to be postponed to pave the way for the completion of all the requisite training, Site Acceptance tests, and systems integration.

    “Mr Speaker, I wish to inform this August House that, having completed all these, the “Go-Live” for operationalization of the New Terminal Building is scheduled for July 31st, 2023.

    Mr. Ayaba questioned the Minister once more on the start date for Phase 3 of the Tamale International Airport.

    In his response, the Minister noted that Tamale International Airport Phase 3 was still in the conceptual phase.

    A request for expressions of interest for an engineering, procurement contractor, and financing (EPC+F) was in the works, he claimed.

    The completion of Tamale International Airport is guaranteed by the transport minister by July 31.

  • Afenyo-Markin visit chiefs in Central Region to address land dispute

    Afenyo-Markin visit chiefs in Central Region to address land dispute

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu Constituency and Deputy Majority Leader of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, headed a delegation on Tuesday to visit the chiefs of Gomoa Ajumako, Gomoa Akyempim, and Effutu in the Central Region.

    The purpose of the visit was to address ongoing land disputes in these areas and seek peaceful resolutions through constructive dialogue.

    Accompanying Afenyo-Markin were De-Graft Paitoo, the MP for Gomoa East; Richard Gyan-Mensah, the MP for Gomoa West; Naana Eyiah, the MP for Gomoa Central and Deputy Minister for the Interior.

    Additional members of the delegation included Kassim Zubairu, the MCE for Effutu; Solomon Darko-Quarm, the DCE for Gomoa East; Bismark Baisie Nkum, the DCE for Gomoa West; and Benjamin Kojo Otoo, the DCE for Gomoa Central.

    During the visit, Afenyo-Markin expressed the team’s commitment to an impartial strategy for resolving the land disputes. He also suggested the establishment of Development Authorities and a bipartisan joint committee to address the concerns of the chiefs and facilitate regional development.

    The paramount chiefs of Gomoa Ajumako, Gomoa Akyempim, and Effutu expressed gratitude for the visit and expressed their support for the team’s efforts in achieving peace and development. They highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence and the need for expedited development in the region.

  • Minority’s Parliament boycott breaches standing orders – Bagbin

    Minority’s Parliament boycott breaches standing orders – Bagbin

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the Minority caucus boycotting Parliamentary business without a formal notice to that effect is a violation of the House’s Standing Orders.

    The Standing Orders of Parliament state that a Member of Parliament must leave his or her seat if he or she has been absent for 15 sittings without the Speaker’s consent and is unable to provide an acceptable explanation.

    The Speaker determined that the gesture is not warranted in response to concerns voiced by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, concerning the representation of the minority being absent without authorization in the Votes and Proceedings of Parliament.

    “Some MPs have been captured for being absent without permission, some concerns have been raised on the definition of walk-out and boycott. The deputy Minority Whip has raised a very serious matter on the fact that from his knowledge, some members were not present yesterday, but they have been captured as present, as it’s an indictment on the officers of Parliament.”

    He added, “On the issue of attendance, Article 97 (1C) is very clear and that is what guides attendance of the house. So you can choose to attend or choose not to attend. When you refuse to attend, depending on your own action, you could be marked as absent or absent with permission. The burden now falls on the group to show evidence that my good self has granted you permission to absent yourselves in writing, not verbally; that any time a colleague of yours wants to attend court proceedings, you will solidarize with that colleague and that you will be absent so that the official report will capture that”.

    On July 11, the Minority in Parliament once again boycotted business activity in Parliament in favor of the prosecution of Assin North MP James Gyakye Quayson.

  • 30 polling station coordinators receive motorcycles from Tarkwa-Nsuaem MP

    30 polling station coordinators receive motorcycles from Tarkwa-Nsuaem MP

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tarkwa-Nsuaem, George Mireku Duker, has handed over a number of motorcycles to 30 polling station coordinators in the Western Region.


    During the presentation, Mr. Duker emphasized the importance of a strong political party and urged the coordinators to work diligently, re-energize their skills, and support the NPP’s vision and programs leading up to the 2024 elections.


    He highlighted the critical role of polling station coordinators in shaping the NPP’s image and conducting effective political campaigns aligned with the party’s development agenda.


    Mr. Duker stressed the NPP’s commitment to promoting Ghana’s development and highlighted key initiatives such as the provision of ambulances, one-constituency projects, free SHS education, and the ongoing dualization of the Takoradi-Tarkwa road.


    As Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Duker emphasized the need for a strong political machinery and organization to fulfill the party’s mandate.

    He encouraged the coordinators to advocate for and spread the positive achievements of the NPP.


    Mr. Duker also shared his own contributions to the constituency, including improvements in NPP’s organization in the 1990s, achievements in the health and education sectors as an MP, and his support for Medeama SC in winning the league trophy in sports.


    “We need to enhance our lobbying skills and reach out to the people. Yes, we need an effective and mobile coordinator. This bike is not for your personal use, it’s for serious political campaigns for the NPP in Tark­wa-Nsuaem.

  • Court adjourns Gyakye Quayson’s stay of proceedings applications in criminal trial to July 11

    The case involving the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has been adjourned by the High Court in Accra.

    A ruling on the application for a stay of proceedings will be delivered on July 11.

    On Thursday, July 6, the legal team representing the embattled MP filed an application requesting the court to stay the proceedings.

    This would allow the Court of Appeal to hear their appeal seeking a review of the trial judge’s decision to conduct the case on a day-to-day basis.

    Tsatsu Tsikata, the lead counsel for the defense, argued that not granting the stay of proceedings would be prejudging the appeal.

    The prosecution, led by Godfred Dame, opposed the application.

    Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament chose to boycott Thursday’s sitting in a show of solidarity with two members of their caucus.

    The Minority Leader, and James Gyakye Quayson, the MP for Assin North, were both scheduled to appear in court that day for their ongoing cases.

    Dr. Ato Forson is currently facing criminal charges related to an alleged financial loss of €2.37 million to the state. The case revolves around a deal to purchase 200 ambulances between 2014 and 2016.

    On the other hand, James Gyakye Quayson is undergoing trial at the High Court in Accra on charges of forgery and perjury. These charges stem from alleged offenses during the lead-up to the 2020 Assin North parliamentary election.

    The Minority expressed unwavering support for their colleagues in a brief statement, highlighting their unity by abstaining from participating in parliamentary proceedings for the day.

    “This is the beginning of a series of actions that the Caucus will be embarking on to end the ongoing persecution of the Minority Leader himself, the Hon. James Gyakye Quayson and the Hon. Collins Dauda.”

  • Larteh residents to boycott election 2024

    Larteh residents to boycott election 2024

    Residents of Larteh Akuapem in the Akuapem North Municipality have threatened to boycott the 2024 general elections if government fails to address the deplorable state of roads in the area.

    They hold the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area and previous governments responsible for their inability to fix the roads, leading to a standstill in economic activities.

    Frustrated residents and drivers in Larteh have expressed their grievances, highlighting the urgent need for proper road infrastructure.

    The roads are riddled with gullies and large potholes, causing damage to vehicles.

    “I don’t think it is a road that you can be happy about as a municipality or even as a place like Larteh. Larteh is a well-known place but the road that leads to the place is terrible, and it is hindering tourists and other people from coming to see how beautiful the town is.”

    It was for that reason he said the roads must be fixed as a matter of urgency to improve development in the town.

    Another resident, Patrick Kwaku Mantey said that “I am very worried, it has been very problematic for the past 10 years. If you look at the road there are patches, but immediately it rains everything gets spoilt again.”

    “We have constantly spoken about the roads and there has even been a situation where chiefs and community members holding the MP to a ransom but to no avail.”

    He made a heartfelt plea to the government, urging them to allocate funds to the contractor to initiate road construction. He emphasized that if this is not done, the residents of Larteh will refuse to participate in the 2024 elections.

    Furthermore, during the inauguration of the Larteh Fire Station, the Chief of Larteh addressed the Minister of Interior and other high-ranking service commanders, appealing to the government to prioritize the construction of the Mamfe to Ayikuma road.

    Responding to the chief’s request the Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong gave an assurance that a contractor will come to the road by the end of this year as the coordinating council is still lobbying at the Ministry of Highways.

    “We have been working with the Ghana Highway Authority to assess it for us. So we got the Ghana Highway regional director to come over and assess it and so far we are at the ministry getting pushing to get the contractor to take it over.

    “So I believe that by the end of the year, we should have a contractor come on the road,” he stated.

  • Alhassan Suhuyini organises free extra classes for Tamale North 2023 BECE candidates

    Alhassan Suhuyini organises free extra classes for Tamale North 2023 BECE candidates

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale-North, Alhassan Suhuyini is organising free extra classes for the 2023 BECE candidates in the constituency.

    According to him, this is to enable the candidates prepare adequately for their examinations. The classes which started on Saturday, June 10, will continue until the students are done with their exams.

    The subjects to be taught include Mathematics, English Language, Integrated Science and Social Studies.

    The centres for the classes are Bishop R/C, Choggu, Kanviller R/C, St Augustine, Nyanshegu and Fou Matariya JHS. Mr Suhuyini in a media interview said education is key on his transformation agenda of the constituency.

    Meanwhile, the lawmaker recently made donations to some artisans in the constituency. The items donated included vulganizing machine, industrial sewing machines, welding machines, carpenter tools and machines.

    Other items were glass cutting machines, masonry tools, steel bending tools, car washing machines, grass mowing tools.

    He also commissioned an ultra-modern ten-seater public toilet facility for the people of Kalpohini, a community in the Tamale-North Constituency.He also donated two brand new motorbikes to selected persons in the constituency.

  • Green Ghana programme must not be a platform for stealing – Suhuyini to govt

    Green Ghana programme must not be a platform for stealing – Suhuyini to govt

    The Green Ghana programme, according to Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale North Constituency, Alhassan Suhuyini, needs precise methods to permit accurate tracking of its growth.

    Speaking to the media on Friday, Mr Suhuyini said this was also to ensure that the scheme did not become one used to siphon money.

    “The Green Ghana programme is well-intentioned. Year in, year out, money is allocated to it. We are told the number of trees that are planted, but there are no clear-cut mechanisms to determine if the numbers that are churned out are actually being planted on the ground. We are told of percentages of performance, but we do not know the criteria used to determine percentages of success when it comes to how well-planted trees are doing.”

    “The issue of contracting is not clear. We do not know if people are contracted based on competitive bidding or handpicking. That is why I said that as much as this is important and has to be done, it has to be done in such a way that it does not become a scheme that is just meant to siphon money. If it is Green Ghana, it must be Green Ghana and not Green Corruption.”

    The Tamale North MP said that the country had spent close to GH¢500 million on national afforestation programmes in the last five years, but the level of devastation to the forests was high.

    “So there is the need for us to ask ourselves what we are getting for how much we are putting into projects aimed at protecting our forests and improving the forest cover in the country, when the records show that there is a high rate of depletion of our forest.”

    Mr Suhuyini said that the Lands Minister had said that 4.89 million trees were planted in 2021, but the President, a few weeks after the Minister’s announcement, said that 7 million trees had been planted. This did not sit well with him.

    “I recall that in 2022, I filed a question for the Minister to tell us how many trees had been planted, how many contractors were used, and all of that. He provided that information, and it was that information I used in my debate. The Minister at the time told us that 4.89 million trees had been planted for the 2021 season. However, a few weeks later, the President said that they had planted 7 million trees. That, for me, was a significant difference.”

    He said that a verifiable formula would help to tell if, for instance, “we are planting 10 million trees this year, and next year, 70% of those trees are doing well. The clear-cut formula that is verifiable by anybody who wishes to verify would tell that indeed those trees are doing well.”



  • My aim is to break Bagbin’s record – Ho West MP

    My aim is to break Bagbin’s record – Ho West MP

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Ho West, Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, has expressed intent to surpass Speaker Alban Bagbin’s longevity record.

    According to him, he is very young hence the reason he would want to serve eight terms in parliament to break Bagbin’s record.

    Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah is one of the incumbent MPs who retained his seat in Saturday’s primary election.

    Speaking in an interview, he said “Look at me. I am a young person. I started … very young. My predecessor [Francis Aggrey Agbotse, MP from 1997 to 2009] started when he was 52 years. I am only 54 years now, so I still have three terms more to go.”

    “I want to break Bagbin’s record. He did seven terms. I would want to do, at least, eight terms,” Asaaseradion.com quoted Emmanuel Bedrah.

    Emmanuel Bedzrah joined parliament in 2009 and has since be retained, he served on parliament’s Works and Housing Committee, House committee and is currently serving on the Government Assurance Committee.

  • A.B.A. Fuseini debunks being fanned after defeat in NDC primaries

    A.B.A. Fuseini debunks being fanned after defeat in NDC primaries

    Member of Parliament (MP) for Sagnarigu, Alhaji A.B.A. Fuseini, has denied reports that his supporters fanned him following his defeat in the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) primaries.

    He clarified that he was nowhere near the polling center when the results were announced, dismissing the claim as a mere fabrication.

    According to him, he had already left the center with his team to find some food before the results were counted. It was during their time at a restaurant that they received news of his defeat.

    Asserting his contentment with the outcome, he dismissed the notion of being in a hysterical state and asserted that such claims were purely imaginary.

    During an interview, he addressed the issue, stating, “I want to respond to the statement suggesting that I was in a hysterical state upon the declaration and required assistance from numerous people fanning me. I want to make it clear that no such incident occurred. When the results were announced, I was far away from the scene. My team and I had stepped outside to eat as I had not eaten all day. It was during this time that I discovered the results, and I wasn’t even in close proximity for supporters to fan me since the results had turned against me.

    “…I believe it is a product of someone’s imagination. I want to emphasize that I was satisfied with the verdict, and that’s what unfolded during the voting. I urge for this false claim to be debunked as it holds no truth,” he added.

  • Video: How Sam George celebrated his victory

    Video: How Sam George celebrated his victory

    On Saturday, May 13, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George emerged winner as the party’s parliamentary candidate in 2024.

    This is the third consecutive time one of the youngest MPs will be representing the party.

    Sam George, who was very optimistic and calm despite a little chaos, polled 1,036 votes.

    Prior to the official announcement, delegates began jubilating for Sam Goerge.

    To confirm he was leading, Sam George, who was close to where the sorting of the ballot paper triggered his delegates to jubilate following his beaming smiles.

  • Kumawu by-election to be held on May 23 – EC

    Kumawu by-election to be held on May 23 – EC

    The by-election for the Kumawu constituency will take place on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, according to the Electoral Commission (EC).

    The Kumawu seat became vacant following the death of the Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency Philip Basoah.

    The EC revealed in a release that nominations will be received at the Setwere Kumawu District Office of the Commission from 2nd May 2023 to 5th May 2023 between the hours of 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on each day.

  • Contrary to popular belief, northerners are not violent – Kennedy Agyapong

    Contrary to popular belief, northerners are not violent – Kennedy Agyapong

    Kennedy Agyapong, a member of parliament for Assin Central district in the Central region has spoken out against the notion that people from the north are violent.

    Kennedy Agyapong who claims to have family ties to that part if the country stated that northerners are simply quick to defend themselves and their rights when they are being cheated or taken advantage of. Hence, the stereotype that they are violent is untrue.

    In a video shared by Oman Channel on April 7, 2023, and sighted by GhanaWeb, the NPP flagbearer hopeful while speaking to members of the party in the Ayawaso East Constituency of the Greater Accra region, explained that because bortherners are quick to defend themselves, they are often labeled as violent. However, he stressed that this is not an accurate characterization of the people from the northern region of Ghana.

    “…and the truth is, for my household, I celebrate both Salah and Christmas, in fact, my grandmother was a Muslim before she married. So, she was ‘Asante kremo’ but all my grandfathers are Muslims, I have Seidu, Abass, Siaka, and Yakubu, and all of these people are in my family who are Muslims.

    “They settled more at Ajumako Anyan Asiam, whereby one of them married a Muslim there, so, all my family people are full of Muslims, except a few of us whose grandparents married Christians.

    “You don’t know where I got my braveness from, my father used to teach at Wa, so I was always fighting and there was a certain day when I went to beat a certain lady. So, my mother was crying lamenting about what a man gave her during her pregnancy to mix with her meals and eat.

    “So, I asked her about what she was lamenting about? and she replied that a certain man used to give her some powder to mix with her porridge and drink so that her son will become strong after delivery.

    He added “So, for me, I am a ‘Wawula’ person, I come from Wa, and that is where the braveness comes from. That is why whenever I see the Northerners, I become happy because we all have the same character, we all hate nonsense … if you want to cheat us and we don’t give room for such things then you conclude we are not good.

    “Do you understand? I know you don’t like cheating, so when it happens then you just say your mind, then they will conclude that they are violent people. So, I should sit down for you to cheat on me and go scot-free, no, is not possible. So, for me, I am one of you,” he said.

    The race for the NPP flagbearership slot has top party members including Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; former trade and industry minister, Alan Kyerematen; former food and agric minister, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto; former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyapong among others.

    November 4, 2023, has been slated as the date for the NPP presidential primaries to elect a flagbearer for the general elections in 2024.

  • Empowering women, my top priority – Manso Adubia MP

    Empowering women, my top priority – Manso Adubia MP

    The deputy minister of food and agriculture, Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, has urged for concerted efforts to empower women and help them achieve economic independence.

    He said it was important to enhance women’s skills in business management to facilitate their self-employability to contribute meaningfully to national development.

    Mr Frimpong Addo, also the Member of Parliament for Manso Adubia, made the call at the reorganisation and inuaguration of the Manso-Dadease Women’s Wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    He said women formed the larger percentage of the population in the constituency and it was important to build their capacity to support the household income, education and healthcare of their families.

    Ongoing road rehabilitation projects in the area would help open it up to create conducive environment for investment and employment generation, he said, and urged the women to grasp the opportunity to improve on their lot.

    Mr Addo called on them to rally behind the NPP and support the Government to continue with the social interventions to benefit most Ghanaians.

    Madam Ruth Osei, Manso-Adubia Constituency Women’s Organizer, said the reorganisation of the wings was to strengthen the party at the community levels and equip the women with skills to propagate the good works of the NPP to help it “Break the Eight.”

    Mr Kofi Acheampong, Constituency Chairman, said women played critical roles in party organisation and it was important to equip them with information and communication skills to sell the good works and gain more votes for the party in the 2024 elections.

  • All about Alfred Obeng-Boateng: The MP sending constituents abroad for better opportunities

    All about Alfred Obeng-Boateng: The MP sending constituents abroad for better opportunities

    Alfred Obeng-Boateng is the Member of Parliament for Bibiani Anhwiaso-Bekwai Constituency in the Western North Region who has promised to deliver a unique proposition to his constituents.

    Instead of the usual developmental issues such as roads, schools, water, electricity, health centres, etc., Obeng-Boateng has promised to deliver “greener pastures” – literally.

    He has named the initiative the ‘Youth Greener Pastures Project’ and aims to send young people in the constituency to the United Kingdom and Europe to try and make a better life for themselves away from home.

    Here are 10 facts about the MP:

    1. Hon. Obeng-Boateng was born in November 1973 and is an indigene of Subiri Nkwanta.
    2. He is a first-time Member of Parliament representing the governing New Patriotic Party.
    3. He is a lawyer by profession and has a Bachelor of Laws (2011) and Professional Legal Practice [Solicitor] (2015) qualifications.
    4. In between, he obtained a Master of Law in Oil and Gas in 2012.
    5. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Government Assurance Committee and is a member of the Communication Committee.
    6. Prior to entering Parliament, Obeng-Boateng served as Managing Director of the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited [BOST].
    7. He also previously worked as Managing Director of APP Mining Services.
    8. He is the Group CEO of Approachers Ghana Limited, a company that publishes Senior High School textbooks.
    9. He is a Christian.
    10. The MP is known for undertaking developmental projects in his constituency.

    Over the weekend, Obeng-Boateng announced that the first batch of the Greener Pastures Project will soon leave the shores of Ghana. The MP spoke about the imminent travel of the first cohort on April 8, 2023, at Baakokrom, a suburb of Sefwi Bekwai. He was in the area to commission a mechanized borehole for the community.

    In 2022, Hon. Alfred Obeng-Boateng announced that 100 youths in the Municipality would fly to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe to seek greener pastures. The youth in the area were excited about the initiative, and it has since attracted the attention of residents in the constituency and the Western North Region as a whole.

    However, the project has elicited varied reactions from people on social media.

  • Strong Anglican like Akufo-Addo does not endorse gayism and lesbianism – Titus-Glover

    Strong Anglican like Akufo-Addo does not endorse gayism and lesbianism – Titus-Glover

    The former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Tema East, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, has stated that President Akufo-Addo will make the greatest mistake if he refuses to sign the anti-LGBT bill into law.

    Speaking in an interview on UTV on Thursday, which was monitored by GhanaWeb, Titus-Glover allayed fears that the president will not assent to the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021 (Anti-LGBTQI bill), saying that Akufo-Addo not approving the bill will not be politically prudent for the NPP.

    “President Akufo-Addo has female children and recently one of them got married. He is a strong believer of the Anglican faith; he does not support gayism and lesbianism.

    “Just like the late former President, Prof John Evans Atta Mills, who said he will not allow the acceptance of gays under his presidency, Akufo-Addo also in an Anglican Church in Mampong said same-sex marriage will never happen under his watch.

    “We know the implication of these gay issues in Ghana, as a political party and as a government. And you think that after Parliament has passed the anti-LGBT bill, the president will say he will not assent it. That will be the greatest mistake of President Akufo-Addo,” he said in Twi.

    Titus-Glover, a former deputy minister of trade and industry, also said that the response given by President Akufo-Addo on the anti-LGBT bill, during the visit of the Vice President of the United States of America, Kamal Harris, was apt.

    He explained that President Akufo-Addo only said that the bill is being considered by Parliament and that when it is passed, it will come to him for approval into law.

    What Akufo-Addo said:

    At the joint press conference, both President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Kamala Harris were confronted with the issue of the criminalization of LGBTQ+ activities in Ghana.

    Responding to the question at Jubilee House, in Accra, on Monday, March 27, President Akufo-Addo refuted the suggestion that Ghana already had an anti-LGBT law.

    He said that the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021 (Anti-LGBTQI bill), which was championed by “only a hand full of MPs”, is currently being considered by Parliament.

    Akufo-Addo added that even if the bill is passed, it will still have to be ratified by him. He also said that the anti-LGBT bill has been modified.

    “The legislation was a private members bill; it is not an official legislation of the government but it is one that is being muted by a hand full of private members.

    “My understanding from the recent discussion I had with the chairman of the committee is that the substantial elements of the bill have already been modified as a result of the intervention of the Attorney General,” he said.

  • MP promises to fly young constituents overseas to seek greener pastures

    MP promises to fly young constituents overseas to seek greener pastures

    The Member of Parliament for Bibiani Anhwiaso-Bekwai Constituency is set to fulfill a promise to help some youth in his area travel out of the country to seek greener pastures.

    Senior journalist at EIB Network Francis Abban shared a post on Twitter suggesting that the MP, Alfred Obeng-Boateng, has hinted that the first batch of the Greener Pastures Project will son leave the shores of Ghana.

    In 2022, Hon. Alfred Obeng-Boateng announced that 100 youth in the Municipality will fly to the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe to seek greener pastures.

    The youth in the area were excited and the initiative has since attracted the attention of residents in the Constituency and the Western North Region as a whole.

    The MP spoke about the imminent travel of the first cohort on April 8, 2023 at Baakokrom, a suburb of Sefwi Bekwai.

    He was in the area to commission a mechanized borehole for the community.

    Meanwhile, the project has elicited varied reactions by people on social media.

  • Education is not government’s priority – Apaak on school feeding challenges

    Education is not government’s priority – Apaak on school feeding challenges

    Dr. Clement Apaak, a member of parliament representing Builsa South, has said that the government has not given the country’s education sector enough priority.

    This comes on the back of scores of caterers on the school feeding programme in the Ashanti region who were left in a shock, when the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah snubbed them, on Monday April 3, 2023.

    The aggrieved traders had gone to the Regional Coordinating Council to present a petition.

    For weeks now these caterers in Ashanti region have been protesting for the release of payments which is almost a year in arrears, and an upward adjustment of the allocation fee, from 97 pesewas per head to GHc3.

    They have attributed the demand for adjustment to hikes in prices of food stuff and other food commodities on market.

    Commenting on the development on Starr News the lawmaker questioned why the government can neglect education and use public funds for other ventures.

    “The question some of us have continued to ask is why for example we will owe school feeding caterers we are not making any efforts to pay them. But the government deem it fit to use taxpayers’ money in excess of three hundred million Ghana cedis towards the construction of personally pledge Cathedral?” Mr. Apaak asked.

    He continued: “Then you will also juxtapose with what many of us considered as the misuse of public resources with regards to the President chartering and flying in private jets. So if you want the truth it is that the government simply has failed not to prioritize what is most basic and most important as far as Ghanaians are concerned. It is so simple, there is no other explanation to it.”

  • NDC Primaries: Police deployed to Asawase to supervise parliamentary vetting

    NDC Primaries: Police deployed to Asawase to supervise parliamentary vetting

    There is a tense atmosphere at the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) Ashanti Regional Office as candidates for the party’s parliamentary nomination in the Asawase constituency for the 2024 elections take turns being vetted.

    The incumbent Member of Parliament for Asawase, Muntaka Mubarak, and his contender, Masawudu Mubarick have successfully gone through the vetting process and were given their numbers on the yet-to-be-printed ballot for the primaries.

    Supporters of both aspirants thronged the vetting centre amidst chants in a contest that is attracting a lot of attention in the region.

    The incumbent, Muntaka Mubarak after the vetting told journalists the support he received from the party supporters during and after the vetting is a sign of an endorsement of his retention as the MP for the area.

    “You don’t get people to continue to support you after two decades of being a Member of Parliament and for people to continue to support me after two decades, then it means there is something that I am doing right, and I only thank Allah for all that he has done for me and I know Allah is not yet done with me.”

    Supporters of Masawudu Mubarick also chanted “we need change” when they entered the premises.

    Masawudu Mubarick insists he is the right person to bring the change party supporters are yearning for in the Asawase Constituency.

  • I visited my daughter at the hospital before the accident – Nanton MP discloses

    I visited my daughter at the hospital before the accident – Nanton MP discloses

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Nanton, Mohammed Hardi Tufeiru, has revealed how he got engaged in an accident before appearing in Parliament.

    According to the MP, he left Parliament to see his daughter, who was admitted to the International Maritime Hospital, because he could no longer get in touch with his wife, who was at the hospital.

    At the hospital, he received calls from the leadership of the Majority Caucus, where he was told that he was needed in the House because the Minority Caucus was asking for a headcount for the approval of the taxes the government was introducing.

    Hardi Tufeiru, who made these remarks in an interview on Citi FM on Monday, monitored by GhanaWeb, added that the accident happened because he was driving at top speed to get to the House in time.

    “I was calling, trying to reach (my wife), but I couldn’t get her on phone. But by then, we were also on suspension in Parliament, so I did some calculations to take 45 minutes to go (and see my daughter) and come back to continue with parliamentary work.

    “So, upon reaching the hospital, I started receiving calls that the minority had challenged the voice vote and that we needed to take the second option, which was headcount, and that I was needed in the chamber,” he narrated.

    The MP, who is also the deputy minister for food and agriculture, said that he was almost at Parliament when the accident occurred because he was driving at top speed and lost control of his vehicle.

  • How a Ghanaian MP was sutured in Parliament’s ‘toilet room’

    How a Ghanaian MP was sutured in Parliament’s ‘toilet room’

    The Majority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, has disclosed that the Member of Parliament for Nanton, Mohammed Hardi Tuferu’s, wounds were cleaned and stitched up in Parliament’s restroom.

    Mohammed Tuferu was involved in an accident ahead of a crucial vote on the government’s revenue bills on Friday.

    His car reportedly somersaulted several times before landing upside down.

    The MP is reported to have suffered a deep cut on his forehead but was still taken to Parliament to vote before he was taken to hospital for further treatment.

    Some Ghanaians have described the decision to rush the MP to Parliament after a near-fatal accident as reckless and insensitive but speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, April 3, Mr Iddrisu said safety precautions were taken before the MP was sent to Parliament to participate in proceedings.

    “The time we were taking the voice vote, he had come to Parliament and I put him in the washroom, we didn’t put him in the Chamber, we put him in the washroom and brought the nurses from Parliament and a doctor to attend to him. The Majority Leader came, and the nurses from Parliament came to attend to him in the washroom”.

    “He had minor bruises on his face, so they cleaned it up and even stitched it up. So he was stitched in Parliament in the washroom.”

    Mr Iddrisu also dismissed claims that several other majority MPs were absent from Parliament.

    According to him, no MP was outside the country and nothing untoward was done to pass the government’s new tax bills.

  • Speaker directs EC to hold Kumawu by-election

    Speaker directs EC to hold Kumawu by-election

    The Kumawu seat in the Ashanti Region has been declared vacant by Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. A.S.K. Bagbin.

    This follows the death of Philip Atta Basoah, the former Member of Parliament.

    The Speaker has therefore, directed the EC to hold a by-election for a replacement of the late MP.

    Article 112 (5) of the 1992 constitution states that “whenever a vacancy occurs in Parliament, the Clerk to Parliament shall notify the Electoral commission in writing within seven days after the vacancy occurred, and a by-election shall be held within thirty days after the vacancy occurred.”

    The former lawmakee died on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where he had been on admission briefly.

    He’s said to have been struck with a stroke while sleeping.